Patentable/Patents/US-11509708
US-11509708

Application sharing method and apparatus

PublishedNovember 22, 2022
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Inventorsnot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

An application sharing method includes obtaining a distance between an icon of a first application and an icon of a second application, where the first application is a to-be-shared application, and the second application is used to share the first application; determining whether the distance is less than a preset distance; if the distance is less than the preset distance, obtaining application information of the first application in an application store on the Internet, and obtaining information about a to-share-with user, where the application information includes a link address of the first application in the application store; and sending the link address to the to-share-with user by using the second application.

Patent Claims
11 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the second application is a communications application, and wherein obtaining the information about the to-share-with user comprises obtaining the information about the to-share-with user using the second application.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a method for sharing information between applications on a computing device, particularly focusing on obtaining user information from a communications application. The method addresses the challenge of securely and efficiently retrieving user details from one application to facilitate sharing or interaction with another application. The process involves a first application initiating a request to share information with a specific user, referred to as the "to-share-with user." The method then obtains relevant information about this user from a second application, which is a communications application. The communications application may include messaging, email, or social media platforms that store user profiles, contact details, or other relevant data. By leveraging the communications application, the method ensures that the retrieved user information is accurate and up-to-date, as it is sourced directly from the application where the user's details are managed. This approach streamlines the sharing process by eliminating the need for manual data entry or redundant storage, enhancing both user convenience and data consistency. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where applications need to interact seamlessly, such as sharing files, initiating conversations, or synchronizing user data across platforms.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The method of claim 2, wherein the application information further comprises evaluation information on the first application.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for evaluating software applications involves analyzing application information to determine compatibility, performance, or other metrics. The method includes collecting application information, which may include metadata, usage data, or other relevant details about the software. This information is then processed to generate evaluation metrics, such as performance benchmarks, compatibility scores, or security assessments. The evaluation information is used to compare applications, optimize their performance, or recommend improvements. The system may also track changes in application behavior over time to identify trends or potential issues. By analyzing this data, users can make informed decisions about software selection, deployment, or maintenance. The method ensures that applications meet specified criteria before being used in a given environment, reducing risks and improving efficiency. The evaluation process may involve automated tools or manual assessments, depending on the complexity of the analysis. The system supports various types of applications, including desktop, web, and mobile software, and can be integrated into existing development or deployment workflows. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of software applications to enhance reliability, security, and performance.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The method of claim 2, wherein obtaining the application information of the first application in the application store on the Internet comprises obtaining the link address of the first application from an installation package of the first application according to the unique identifier of the first application.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a method for obtaining application information from an application store on the Internet. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently retrieve application details, such as a link address, from an application store using a unique identifier. The method involves accessing an application store to obtain information about a first application. Specifically, the method extracts the link address of the first application from its installation package by using the application's unique identifier. This allows users or systems to quickly locate and access the application's online resources without manual searching. The installation package of the first application contains metadata, including the unique identifier, which is used to retrieve the link address. This approach ensures accurate and automated retrieval of application information, improving efficiency in application management and distribution. The method may be part of a broader system for managing applications, where the unique identifier is used to identify and track applications across different platforms. The invention simplifies the process of obtaining application details, reducing the need for manual intervention and enhancing the reliability of application information retrieval.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The method of claim 1, wherein displaying the first operation list when the time length during which the icon of the first application is continuously tapped is greater than the preset time length comprises displaying the first operation list and the icon of the first application in a same display interface when a time length during which the icon of the first application is continuously tapped is greater than the preset time length.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to user interface interactions in electronic devices, specifically methods for displaying operation lists in response to continuous tapping gestures. The problem addressed is improving user accessibility and efficiency by providing quick access to application functions through extended touch interactions. The method involves detecting a continuous tapping gesture on an application icon displayed on a device screen. When the duration of the continuous tap exceeds a preset time threshold, the system displays an operation list associated with the application alongside the icon in the same display interface. The operation list contains selectable functions or actions related to the application, allowing users to perform tasks without navigating through multiple menus. The preset time length can be adjusted to balance responsiveness and accidental activation. This approach enhances user experience by reducing the number of steps required to access common application functions, particularly in environments where precise touch input is challenging. The method ensures that the operation list appears only after a deliberate, sustained interaction, minimizing unintended activations. The system may also include visual or haptic feedback to confirm the gesture is being recognized. This technique is applicable to smartphones, tablets, and other touchscreen devices.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The electronic device of claim 8, wherein the second application is a communications application, and wherein the instructions further cause the electronic device to obtain the information about the to-share-with user using the second application.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to electronic devices configured to facilitate information sharing between users. The problem addressed is the need for a seamless and secure way to transfer information from one application to another, particularly when sharing data with another user. The invention involves an electronic device with a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the device to perform specific functions. The device runs a first application that generates or accesses information intended for sharing with another user. A second application, which is a communications application, is used to obtain information about the intended recipient. The device then shares the information from the first application with the recipient via the second application. The system ensures that the information is securely transferred and that the recipient is properly identified before sharing occurs. This approach streamlines the sharing process by integrating multiple applications, reducing the need for manual data entry or separate transfer steps. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where quick and accurate information sharing is required, such as in business or social communication contexts.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The electronic device of claim 8, wherein the application information further comprises evaluation information on the first application.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to electronic devices configured to manage and evaluate applications, particularly focusing on improving user experience by providing detailed application information. The problem addressed is the lack of comprehensive evaluation data for applications, which can lead to poor user decisions when selecting or using applications. The electronic device includes a display, a processor, and memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to display application information for a first application. This information includes evaluation metrics such as performance, security, and user feedback, enabling users to make informed decisions. The device may also compare the first application with other applications based on these metrics, providing a ranked or scored comparison. The evaluation information is dynamically updated to reflect real-time data, ensuring users have the most current insights. The system may also integrate with external databases or user reviews to enhance the evaluation process. By presenting this detailed evaluation information, the device helps users select applications that meet their needs while avoiding potential risks. The invention improves application management by providing transparent, data-driven insights directly within the device interface.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The electronic device of claim 8, wherein the instructions further cause the electronic device to obtain the link address of the first application from an installation package of the first application according to the unique identifier of the first application.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to electronic devices and methods for managing application links. The problem addressed is the difficulty in dynamically obtaining and utilizing link addresses of applications installed on an electronic device, particularly when the applications are not actively running or when their link addresses are not readily available. The invention provides an electronic device with a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the device to obtain a link address of a first application. The device identifies a unique identifier of the first application, such as a package name or bundle ID, and retrieves the link address from the application's installation package using this identifier. This allows the device to access or launch the application without requiring prior knowledge of its link address or the application being in an active state. The solution improves application management by dynamically resolving link addresses from installation metadata, ensuring compatibility with various applications and reducing reliance on preconfigured or hardcoded links. The method is particularly useful in systems where applications are frequently installed, updated, or removed, as it ensures accurate and up-to-date link resolution.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The electronic device of claim 7, wherein the instructions further cause the electronic device to display the first operation list and the icon of the first application in a same display interface when a time length during which the icon of the first application is continuously tapped is greater than the preset time length.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to user interface interactions in electronic devices, specifically improving the responsiveness and efficiency of application access through touch-based gestures. The problem addressed is the delay and complexity in accessing application functions, particularly when users need to perform multiple operations quickly. The solution involves detecting continuous tapping gestures on an application icon and, when the tapping duration exceeds a preset threshold, displaying both the application icon and a list of available operations in the same interface. This eliminates the need for additional navigation steps, streamlining the user experience. The system includes an electronic device with a touch-sensitive display, a processor, and memory storing instructions. The instructions enable the device to detect continuous tapping on an application icon, measure the tapping duration, and compare it to a preset time length. If the duration exceeds the threshold, the device displays the application icon alongside a list of operations associated with the application, allowing the user to select an operation directly from the same interface. This reduces the number of steps required to access application functions, enhancing usability and efficiency. The preset time length can be adjusted based on user preferences or system settings to balance responsiveness and accidental activation. The invention is particularly useful in mobile devices, tablets, and other touchscreen-based systems where quick access to application functions is critical.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein the second application is a communications application, and wherein the computer program product further comprises computer instructions for obtaining the information about the to-share-with user using the second application.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a computer program product for facilitating information sharing between applications. The technology addresses the problem of efficiently transferring user information between different applications, particularly when one application needs to obtain details about a user from another application, such as a communications application. The solution involves a computer program product that includes instructions for obtaining information about a user from a second application, such as a communications application, and sharing that information with a first application. The program product ensures seamless integration between applications, allowing the first application to access user details without manual input. The second application, acting as a source, provides the necessary user information, which may include contact details, profile data, or other relevant identifiers. The system automates the transfer process, improving efficiency and reducing errors in data exchange between applications. This approach is particularly useful in environments where multiple applications need to interact, such as in enterprise software, social media platforms, or collaborative tools. The invention enhances user experience by minimizing manual data entry and ensuring accurate information sharing across different software systems.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein the computer program product further comprises computer instructions for obtaining the link address of the first application from an installation package of the first application according to the unique identifier of the first application.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to software installation and interoperability, specifically addressing the challenge of dynamically linking applications based on unique identifiers. The system involves a computer program product that facilitates communication between a first application and a second application by obtaining a link address from the first application's installation package. The unique identifier of the first application is used to locate the installation package, which contains the necessary link address for establishing a connection. This allows the second application to interact with the first application without requiring manual configuration or hardcoded addresses. The solution improves automation in software integration, reducing errors and enhancing compatibility between applications. The installation package serves as a centralized repository for the link address, ensuring consistency and ease of access. This approach is particularly useful in environments where applications need to dynamically discover and connect to each other based on identifiers rather than predefined paths. The invention streamlines the process of linking applications, making it more efficient and scalable.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The computer program product of claim 13, wherein the computer program product further comprises computer instructions for displaying the first operation list and the icon of the first application in a same display interface when a time length during which the icon of the first application is continuously tapped is greater than the preset time length.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to user interface interactions in computing systems, specifically improving the accessibility and efficiency of application operations. The problem addressed is the need for a more intuitive way to access application functions without navigating through multiple menus or screens, particularly when interacting with touch-based interfaces. The invention involves a computer program product that enhances application operation display based on user input. When a user continuously taps an application icon for a duration exceeding a preset time threshold, the system responds by displaying a list of available operations associated with that application alongside the icon. This operation list appears in the same display interface as the icon, eliminating the need for additional navigation steps. The preset time length can be adjusted to balance responsiveness and accidental activation. The system may also include features for dynamically adjusting the operation list based on user preferences, usage history, or contextual factors. For example, frequently used operations may be prioritized in the display. The invention ensures that the operation list is visually distinct from the icon to avoid confusion, and it may include visual or haptic feedback to confirm the user's input. This approach streamlines access to application functions, reducing the time and effort required to perform tasks on touch-based devices.

Classification Codes (CPC)

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Patent Metadata

Filing Date

March 24, 2020

Publication Date

November 22, 2022

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